Complaint Against Councillor for Using Irish Language Dismissed

Sinn Féin councillor Maighréad Ní Chonghaile has welcomed the dismissal of a complaint made against her for speaking in Irish (an Ghaeilge) during a meeting of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council. The complaint, lodged by a unionist councillor with the Local Government Commissioner for Standards, was ultimately struck out. Ms Ní Chonghaile stated that the Irish language is thriving and that society is making significant progress in equality and language rights, noting its legal protection and increasing presence across Northern Ireland. She called on Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council to implement a proactive policy to protect the rights of Irish speakers.

Appeal After Van Stolen in Strabane

Police in Strabane are appealing for information following the theft of a blue Mercedes Sprinter van from a driveway in the Derry Road area. The vehicle was reported stolen at approximately 02:40 on Monday, 7 July 2025. There have also been reports of other vehicles in the vicinity being tampered with. Officers are appealing to anyone with information, who knows the whereabouts of the van, or who is offered a similar vehicle for sale under suspicious circumstances, to contact them on 101, quoting reference 116 of 07/07/25. Police are also keen to hear from anyone who witnessed suspicious activity or has relevant footage from around that time.

Killeavy Castle Estate Launches Signature Whiskey Tasting Experience

Killeavy Castle Estate, which opened in April 2019 and is known for its continuous development including restaurants, self-catering residences, and a thermal spa, has unveiled its new Signature Whiskey Tasting experience. This new offering allows guests to explore the Estate's history while sampling two exclusive whiskeys developed in collaboration with Two Stacks Whiskey, a Co. Armagh brand. The tasting features whiskeys thoughtfully paired with curated bites from the Estate's farm-to-fork kitchen, enhancing the overall experience. The exclusive whiskeys are a 6 Year Old Irish Pot Still with triple sherry maturation and an Australian Apera finish, available in both Cut and Cask strength bottlings. The tasting takes place in the newly renovated 'The Corn Store' whiskey room, located at the Estate.